Leica’s Q Camera Announced; Boasts the World’s Highest-Resolution Electronic Viewfinder

The first image and specs leaked last week, we covered the dedicated app earlier today and now the camera itself has finally been announced.

The fixed-lens camera features a specially designed 24MP CMOS sensor, reaches a maximum ISO of 50,000 and posses a 3.68MP electronic viewfinder.

As you’d expect when it comes to anything with Leica’s red dot on it, the camera doesn’t come cheap.

The Leica Q leaks specs turned out to be accurate, and here they are for those who haven’t seen them yet:

• Summilux 1: 1.7 / 28mm ASPH lens
• 24MP CMOS full-size sensor
• Made in Germany
• Full HD Video (30 and 60 full frames per second for video recording in MP4 format)
• Built-in WiFi
• Remote control possible from smartphones and tablets
• Top cover constructed of machined aluminum
• Magnesium body
• Laser engraved labels and markings on the adjustment wheels
• Touch panel
• Focus peaking
• Live View zoom
• 3.68 million dots EVF
• New Maestro II image processing engine
• Up to 10fps in continuous shooting
• Top ISO of 50,000

Making the camera easier to control some aspects, such as auto focus, can be set using the touch screen or actual buttons.

For those who prefer to focus manually, the camera’s focus peaking and x6 live view zoom will come in very handy.

As far as accessories go, Leica has you covered with various protectors, cases, holsters, straps and more.

Under what Leica calls technical equipment, you will find handgrips and finger loops compatible with the new camera, as well as screen protection film, the SF 26 flash unit and an assortment of tripods and ballheads.

While the dedicated app is free of charge, the camera will cost you $4,500.

According to ePHOTOzine, the camera is already available in the UK for £2,900 ($4,500) and includes a copy of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. You know, just in case you could afford a Leica but Lightroom was out of your budget.

UPDATE: The camera is now available for pre-order at B&H for just $4,250, where it is expected to become available on June 16th. The listing doesn’t include a copy of Lightroom at the moment, but that can be purchased separately for $143.

UPDATE: Steve Huff got to play with the Leica Q for a few days. Watch his review below: